RETURN OF THE 'OLD-TIMERS': AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON THE INVOLVEMENT OF PERSONS WITH YOUTH DELINQUENCY EXPERIENCES IN COMMUNITY-BASED YOUTH WORK

Abstract

This study explores the journeys of former juvenile delinquents who are involved in work with youths-at-risk in community-based settings in Singapore. Utilising a conceptual framework that combines desistance theory and the helper therapy principle, this study seeks to plug the gap in existing literature on the motivations, experiences, gains and struggles of indigenous helpers in the rehabilitative setting for youths-at-risk. Qualitative interviews were conducted with persons who had juvenile delinquency experiences (n=10) and who are currently volunteers or staff in various youth work agencies. Study findings suggest that on top of intrinsic motivations, many of these ‘old-timers’ were influenced to come back by a mentor. They also possess attributes that make them relatable to youth clients, are able to utilise their past experiences as a helping tool and are committed to journeying with youths for the long-term. The ‘old-timers’ also benefitted significantly from the helping experiences: they gained interpersonal skills, experienced enhanced social connectedness and became more deeply committed to their own change as a result. Finally, the critical importance of agency culture and supervisory support in supporting the returning ‘old-timers’ is highlighted and discussed with implications for youth work practice in Singapore.